Outta town!

So I'm in Chicago. I'm sitting at a very nice hotel (in the lobby cause our room's not ready yet). I've been sitting here for well over 2 hours with nothing to do. I'm such a loser.

More later.

Busy little bee

Counting drive time, I've been pulling 14 hour days. These are not fun. I'm one of the first ones at school and one of the last to leave. I leave the house, it's dark...I get home, it's dark. Poor puppy is not enjoying his time at home alone for 14 hours a day. I've thought about putting him in doggie day care. I use to laugh at those people, and now I have become one.

I can't teach him to use the doggie door yet since we STILL don't have a fence via Ike. We use to have parts of a fence, but the hubby decided to burn it all. I think he has a problem with being a slight pyro. We're outside the city limits, so we don't have a burn ban. Anyone can burn, and everyone does.

Anyhoo...

It's 8:30, and I'm finally home. Just 6 more days. I took off the last 3 days of school to go to Chicago for a convention. I'm pretty excited. I love my job, but if it's a choice of being there or not being there, I'll take the not being there.

I have a program on Thursday. 4th grade. I hate 4th grade. No, I shouldn't say that...I hate programs, and programs hate me. They're a huge waste of time. I've lost 10 weeks worth of music class to practice a stupid program! Don't call me on Friday...I'll be highly hungover. I'm sure it'll be a fiasco and will blog about it as soon as I can. Stay tuned.

Belle

When I was just 14, mom brought home a cute little min pin puppy. Beauty and the Beast was one of our favorite movies at the time, so we named her Belle.

For almost 16 years Belle was the family dog. And although she wasn't the most photogenic, we still loved her.

We'll just skip that whole Thanksgiving thing

I put up my Christmas tree on Saturday. I've been in the spirit since Wal-Mart put up their Christmas stuff back in October. I like my tree...it's simple. This is our third Christmas with this tree. I bought it the week before Christmas in 06 for 70% off. It was time to upgrade from the 3 footer.





Puppy had to have 3 shots today. He was not a happy puppy. I think the fecal test was his least favorite. He keeps dragging his booty on the ground. I don't blame him. I felt guilty, so I bought him lots of treaties and chewies and a new bed. I'm such a sucker...but look at that face!

Traffic suuuuuucks!

I hate traffic. I figured I could write a whole blog on traffic and how much I hate it. If you've ever been on FM 1960 during rush hour, you know how much traffic sucks. Red light...move 20 yards...red light...move 20 yards...red light.

Then there's road construction that seems to last FOREVER. That, and I never see anyone working on the road. Lanes just merge for no reason at all. People need to learn the rules of merging. It's like a zipper, people! I only need to let one car in...ONE! Just because you're in a pickup truck doesn't mean you're special. You need to merge like everyone else. One car at a time. Can you tell this is a pet peeve of mine?

Bit of randomness

I went to the Spring/Westfield football game tonight. It was the last game of the season, so I thought I'd make an appearance. Both bands had gone to State, so it was a great halftime. It reminded me of being in High School Band. I actually missed it there for about 12 minutes...then I was okay. I actually saw one of my students there tonight. My kiddos eventually go to Westfield...that school that's been in the news at least once a month for murders. Yep, that's us. I can't imagine my students turning into thugs, though...but I'm sure some will, but that's a whole other post.

I'm exhausted. I'm not looking forward to tomorrow or Sunday. I have to listen to 40 clarinets play very poorly tomorrow. Sunday is yet another Football game against the Ravens, I believe. And then we just start again on Monday. I would love to see my husband sometime before Thanksgiving, but I don't think that's going to happen.

Well this blog was pretty random. I really did have something planned before I started typing, but words just seemed to ecape me at the least minute. I'm going to bed.

Good times from elementary school

I really love my job this year. I get to act like a complete fool, and I'm loved for it. I get called beautiful every day by 5 and 6 year olds even when I'm feeling not so lovely. As long as you keep the little ones entertained, they keep the compliments coming. Sometimes I just have to laugh at some of the goofy stuff they say.

"My toe hurts."

"I have a loose tooth."

"I ate a pop tart for breakfast."

"My brother's 2, but I don't like him."

They feel the need to tell me whatever pops in their little minds at that moment in time. At which point I usually reply with the same thing. "Alright, thanks for that fascinating glimps into your life." Usually they just giggle and go away. I'm sure they have no idea what I just said.

I've also mastered the art of giving bribes for good behavior. Stickers are my vice. Don't think 5th graders won't do anything for a sticker...especially if it glows in the dark. The Dollar Tree has become my favorite store. It really is a teacher mecca. I don't really care if they love me because I give them stuff. I know how boring music class can be. They have to look forward to something...even if it is a Sponge Bob sparkly sticker I slap in their heads as they walk out the door.

Don't hate, motivate!

I'm having a hard time finding the motivation to do ANYTHING these days. I give a dog and pony show all day, plan for a program, head up a committee, write eviction letters on occasion, starting up two clubs, and was asked to be nominated for president of our PTO. I guess they figure I have more than enough time. I'm not a regular ed teacher, so I must have hours and hours to spare. Well, I figure it's an honor to be picked by your principal to head up her PTO.

That aside, I was asked by my husband the other day if he could possibly have a home cooked meal AT HOME. I suppose I have been neglecting my wifely duties. But I don't even cook for ME...it's hard to get motivated to cook food I don't eat to satisfy his lust for meat and cheese. He'll just give me a dirty look if dinner was couscous and seitan kabobs. Mmmm...wheat gluten on a stick...

Precious puppy

His name is Dobbie. Like the house elf in Harry Potter. If you don't know Harry, than I'm sorry for you. Dobbie's growing up so fast. I think he's even bigger than this picture which I took about a week ago. His favorite toy is his Kong as long as it has peanut butter in it...otherwise, it's his least favorite. Chewing on things is his forte. Mainly he likes to chew on me and not the $7 Nylabones I got him. He loves to go outside and play in the backyard, but I have to watch him or he'll go over the fence that's STILL down from the hurricane.

Kitties aren't too thrilled about him, but they're lazy and stubborn and just stay in their room.

yulkyuyikjhml66666,

That was from Dobbie. He says hi.

A new fur baby!

This is our new puppy. We're just calling him puppy for now...I can't think of a good name. Any suggestions?

Keep up the crappy work!

I'm having an extremely hard time feeling peppy for my boys this season. They're freaking 0-4!! That sucks! That game on Sunday was hard to watch...well not all of it, but we lost...it's hard to remember the rest. Our team sucks. It's so sad. People pay lots of money to watch a losing team. Luckily I don't have to pay money to watch (I get in for free), but I still have to watch. It's still painful to see them lose week after week. I'm still bummed about this.

I scream, you scream...

I just finished dinner. A half a pint of ice cream. It's not real ice cream, of course, but I think I've found the best non-dairy ice cream EVER! Sure it's $3.89 a pint, but worth every calorie ridden bite. Just because it's non-dairy doesn't mean it's non-fat. This was my dinner...nothing new to me. I figure if I don't eat anything else it's okay, right? Right!

Although I think it's going straight to my butt. I started running on the treadmill instead of outside for vanity sake. There's so much on me that jiggles (especially my back end) that I have no need to showcase this in the outdoors. But I digress...

The ice cream stays. I have need for it. It makes me happy. I've given up a lot in the food and beverage department...I'm keeping the ice cream. If you ever see it in the store, you have to get it.

Program, shmogram...

I hate programs. I really don't remember being in any programs when I was in school. I remember seeing my sister's Kindergarten program, but that's it. Why do we DO these? Every day for the next 6 weeks (luckily only during 1 class) I get to put on the same music, and teach the SAME songs! It's right before Thanksgiving, so I suppose it'll have a Turkey day theme. I've got 3 songs...nothing more...I have to start this on Monday...I'm so not creative. Any creative ideas are welcome. Just keep in mind I work in the ghetto. Parent volunteers are non existent. Nothing too over the top. No really...I need ideas.

Neighborly love

I love my neighbors for many reasons.

1. They're always home and can sign for our packages during the day.

2. They help me mow the lawn when I'm looking pitiful with my crappy lawnmower.

3. They provide endless entertainment when the sun goes down.

I guess they figure if they can't be seen, they can't be heard. They're like kids who think sound doesn't travel. I'm sure the alcohol has a lot to do with it, but the more they drink, the more entertained we are. During the week of no power there was no shortage of Next Door Excitement. We usually sit on the back porch...I don't know why, we just do. But since we had the generator running in the back, we had to make do with the front. We'd go sit in the complete darkness out front and enjoy the cool weather. The only way you'd know the neighbors were out was the light from their cigarettes glowing. We might actually be the only ones in our neighborhood who don't smoke and have college degrees. Anyhoo...

A very large tree came down on 2 of their cars during the hurricane...about 8 feet from our bedroom window. They were obviously not happy about it and made their anger known to anyone in a 1/2 block radius...from their front porch. That porch has seen more drama than a Broadway stage! But we don't mind. It's worth not having TV with neighbors like these! :o)

Life after Ike

Holy crap! That hurricane really sucked. Not that not all hurricanes don't suck, but that was a doozy. It's taken a week to post because it's taken a week to get power. I'm not going to complain too much about that, we had a generator from Rita...we were lucky. Finding gas for it was another story. Water was just turned on today...eight days without water. That was the worse part. But we still have a house, so I don't really care. I wish I could get the pictures off the camera, but that'll have to wait. Hubby decided to put them all on HIS computer and delete them off the camera. But soon I promise to show you lots of water and destruction.

Power companies from all over the country were here working on downed lines. I've never seen anything like it. They were awesome. The power went out late Friday night. We started seeing trucks in our neighborhood on Thursday morning, and by the time the sun went down on Friday, the power was on. As the trucks left the neighborhood, it was like a parade of onlookers hooping and hollering from their front yards. These men were heros to us.

Our fire department was also awesome. Twice during the week they came to our very low class neighborhood and gave us all cases of water and bags of ice. They're certainly getting a letter from me!

Going to PODS (points of distribution) was not in our plan, but we did eventually go to one for ice and water. I was not happy about going to one, but ice was in short supply since most grocery stores still didn't have power either.

Things are starting to feel more normal now that I don't have to brush my teeth with bottled water, or take sponge baths with baby wipes, or go outside to cool off. I'll be posting pictures as soon as I get them.

Head to the hills!

Even without TV, I know there's a hurricane coming. Hurricane Ike...almost to the middle of the alphabet already. Freakin' hurricanes. You could be a hermit and know it's coming. It's like Armageddon. Lines at the gas station, signs at the gas station saying "no more gas", the bumper to bumper traffic headed north, bread and water gone from every store in a 100 mile radius, and a lot of really bad drivers. This morning we heard there would be no school tomorrow. Well that was a shocker. I suppose the catagory 3 hurricane headed our way didn't tip us off.

Before the end of the day, those of us who lived far were told to go home at about 2:15. I didn't get home until a few minutes ago...about 2 hours to go 20 miles. I guess that's not bad considering with Rita I sat in traffic for 12 hours and went 5 miles. I didn't complain about my measly 2 hour drive home. But mom lives down by Galveston. I don't envy that drive if she decides to come up here. Not that my house is any safer...it's farther north, but built on wheels.

Is it just me, or does it seem like there are a lot more hurricanes forming every year? What the heck is going on? Oh well. Here's an extra day to get my house clean, and do lesson plans...yippee. Let's hope I have power while doing it.

Sick already

My eighth day of school, I felt a little tickle in my throat. Well, I am talking and singing all day, so I thought it was just voice strain. Day nine I wake up with a stuffy nose. This is not happening the SECOND week of school! As teachers we accumulate days every year to use as we see fit. If we change districts, we lose our local days, but keep our state days. My last year of teaching, I thought that would be it for me. I went ahead and took ALL my days that year. I had 21. Yes, I took 21 days off school...I hated it that much.

Fast forward to the present. I am now starting with no days of sick leave...not that I would take any right now, but coming from 21 days to nothing in one year is quite impressive. My immune system is crappy. I really was sick a lot that year. My first year of teaching little kids who don't like to wash their hands takes its toll. I had several colds, the flu (twice), pleurisy, ringworm, and a few upper respiratory infections. It was a rough year. So here I go again. Into a new battlefield of germs and infection. Second week of school...I think that's a record. Even though I've sprayed Lysol on all my door handles, keep hand sanitizer on me like a drug, and wash my hands 27 times a day, it was all for nothing.

These next two weeks, I'm going to do a little experiment. I'm not going to sanitize anything, and see if I still get sick. Might as well have a little fun with not being able to breath through my nose.

So tired...

I just got home from a football game...it's midnight, on a school night. We got the shaft, as usual at. This time it was no food AND no locker room. All this after a fun day at school with, count them, 2 fire drills in one day! Why 2 fire drills in one day, you ask? Because we didn't get out fast enough the first time.

Let me preface this by saying it's the first week of school. The first fire drill happened first thing in the morning. Do you remember what class I have 1st? KINDERGARTEN! Did they happen to warn us about this coming doom?...no. No time to tell them not to cry from the loud noise coming from the walls. No time to learn how to say line up and stay quiet in Spanish. Did I mention they don't speak English?...No?

Well after this complete disaster, while I was bringing 5th grade into my room, ANOTHER alarm goes off. Now I'm just annoyed. But luckily they speak English, so not so crazy. I'm assuming we got out fast enough this time since there wasn't a third alarm...I wouldn't be surprised. Perhaps tomorrow.

I'm going to bed.

First day of school

The first day of school came and went on Monday, but we (the Specials team) didn't have any kids that day. I felt pretty bad for those classroom teachers who had to be with their kids all day without a conference (or what we call a long lunch). Today was my real first day.

1st thing in the morning we have Kindergarten...oh, joy. I'm a pretty fast talker, so I really have to slow things down for Kinder, or it's buh-bye attention spans. Kinder is what I like to call The Animal. They have to be taught EVERYTHING! From where their feet go when they're standing or sitting, to how we don't talk out of turn (blurting), to where your eyes need to be when the teacher's talking...you know, stuff you tell your kids every year and wonder why they can't remember it. But it's all good now. Once I brought out the sparkly pencils to give out, they learned really quick what was appropriate. It's amazing what a little bribe will do!

This worked in pretty much all my classes. I love most of my Tuesday kiddos. Let's hope the rest of the week goes as smoothly.

New school, new year

It's the night before the first day of school. Of course, all teachers are anticipating this day so much it's going to be hard to sleep. I think we might be more anxious than the kids...I know I am. With my new job comes new responsibilities. I'm by myself this year. I've never been alone in teaching. I'm actually kind of excited. I can do whatever I want! This makes me happy. My PALM team is awesome (PE, Art, Library, Music). They keep me laughing, which is something I highly enjoy doing.

There's really no point to this post. I know I'm rambling, but I can't think of anything else to do with myself. New school clothes are put away, tomorrow's outfit is laid out...LUNCH!...I need to put my lunch together. Okay, that's enough rambling! Wish me luck!

The plateau

Being fat sucks. On the road to skinny we hit bumps, detours, and sometimes we crash. I don't know what catagory I would fit into, but I haven't crashed. Having something to work towards is suppose to help me, but I haven't been motivated enough to work. My 5K is in just over 4 months...hopefully this is enough time to get my butt in gear (literally). 3 miles in 4 months? I think this is possible, even for chubby ol' me.

It's back to school time!

Having a new job has it's pros and cons. Pros: Meeting new people; decorating a new room; 1st days of school. Cons: Meeting new people; decorating a new room; 1st days of school. Right now I love my school. I love my admin, I love my team, and I love all the other teachers...right now. Ask me again in a couple of weeks how I love it. The excitement of back to school is in the air, but it won't last long...a week, maybe two.

Let me tell you what I'm not looking forward to: Morning bus duty; Telling the students their other music teacher isn't coming back; Being compared to said "other" music teacher; Having kindergarten for 45 minutes 1st period...need I go on? I've been in my classroom for the past couple of weeks getting it ready. Our meet the teacher is tomorrow night. I'm trying to prep myself for the disappointed little faces of students who come to visit their "former" music teacher. I'll let you know how this goes.

Operation sunscreen

Operation sunscreen is a program we put together to help protect the troops as they help protect us! With your donation of $20, you will be providing a Mary Kay sunscreen set to troops overseas including:

1 SPF 30 sunscreen

1 Lip protector sunscreen SPF 15

1 After-sun Replenishing gel

If you're interested in donating to this great cause, please email me at heatherclark79@marykay.com

I will make all the orders from my computer and ship directly to the Soldiers Angel Network, so all you need to do is donate! :o)

I AM SPARTACUS!

I received the BEST news last night as we were ending our first NFL preseason game. Phantom Regiment WON FINALS!!! Woohoo!!! All of us Regiment alum in the band (around 5 or 6) went totally berserk. I think most people around us figured it had something to do with the Texans winning in the last few seconds of the game, but no. We had other games on our minds. Good job Phantom! I'm still so excited I can't stop smiling! I feel like such a loser for not having seen the show this year, but you better believe I'm buying the video.

So I leave you with a little snippet of the show this season. Maybe when I get the video, I'll have a little Phantom watching party!

I AM SPARTACUS!

The High Cost of Low Prices

The last few months have been months of change. Mostly they're changes that were better for me and for the environment. I went vegan, I only buy American gas, I use less plastic bags at the store, I got a reusable water bottle, and many other things I just can't think of right now. My new venture to save the world is boycotting Wal-Mart. Thanks to my friend, it was recommended I watch a sort of documentary on how Wal-Mart is destroying the world.

"The High Cost of Low Prices"

This is a must watch movie. I hated Wal-Mart before, but this just made me feel better about it. All "Mom and Pop" businesses in small towns are completely wiped out when Wal-Mart comes to town. It was very eye-opening. Low wages, high cost medical coverage, encouragement from management to take advantage of government hand outs, managers changing weekly hours to keep employees under 40, and factory conditions in other countries. I WILL NEVER SHOP THERE AGAIN. You shouldn't either. This company is evil! Most of the products from Wal-Mart are manufactured in China, yet I've seen commercials about how we should buy American and shop at Wal-Mart. LIES! I don't like liers. I'll gladly take my business where it's appreciated and needed. Go rent this movie!!!

The road to skinny

Losing weight has been a real eye-opening experience for me. I've realized a few things:
1. I CAN do it.
2. I feel better.
3. I look better.
4. I still LOVE food.

I decided last week that it was time to try on the wedding dress. This was the ultimate test. Now, I was still a chunky monkey at my wedding, but I'll take what little satisfaction I can get. It fit, and I was happy. I even did a little dance around my living room to celebrate since I happen to be alone. This is probably the only outfit in my closet that has survived since the wedding. Needless to say, my wardrobe is lacking in the smaller clothes department. Some days I really look sad. Frumpy shirts and shorts with a saggy butt. New clothes are not in the budget yet, so it's just going to have to do.

I've got about 35-40 pounds left to lose before I'm a skinny bitch, but I have faith in my system. I would put up a "before" picture, but I'll spare myself the embarassment. Those of you who know me can just picture it, I'm sure.

Three days with Mary Kay

I just got back yesterday after being in Dallas since Sunday. I went to my first Mary Kay Seminar, and I had a blast! I've never seen so many women in one place! It was like I stepped into a Lifetime movie. A few women brought their spouses, but men were a rare sight indeed. I didn't get to stay in the same hotel as my area, so I was in a room all by myself. But what a room it was!

This place was crazy! It was like the Oscars and Miss America rolled into one.

It was so awesome to watch my new Sales Director Jessica walk across stage with my former Sales Director Holly!

I had a blast with my MK girls!

MEME

What were you doing 10 years ago?
I was traveling the country marching with the Phantom Regiment. I can't believe that was 10 years ago! After getting back in August, I started dating my husband...how time flies.

Favorite Snacks:
Tofutti Cuties
Cashews
Peanut Butter

To do list:
Get dressed...we have small goals in the summer.
Oil change
Pack for seminar
Pick up dry cleaning

Jobs I have had:
Taco Bell
Petsmart (for 1 day) :o)
Babysitter
Private lessons
TCBY
Band director
Elementary Music teacher

Places I have lived:
Atwater, CA; Kearns, UT; Tucson, AZ; Houston, TX; Bountiful, UT; Friendswood, TX; Huntsville; Vanderbilt; Conroe.

Bad Habits:
Sleeping too much...according to my husband, it's a bad habit.
Not answering the phone.
Biting my nails.
Procrastination.

5 Random thing people may not know:
1. I like the smell of gasoline.
2. I died several times when I was 18 months old.
3. My secret dream is to be an opera singer.
4. I want to learn to pole dance.
5. I sleep with 6 pillows.

CDs I would want if stranded on an island:
How would I listen to these CDs? Do I have batteries for life? Anyhoo...
Wicked
ABBA
Moulin Rouge
Enchanted
Mozart's Requiem
Beethoven's complete symphonies

What I'd do if I were a billionaire:
Buy new house
Invest the rest!

Cows are ...not in my chili!

Ooooh honey, I made some awesome vegan chili tonight. I was in kind of a cooking mood for some reason. This is not the norm for me recently. I've had no urge to cook, but since going out to eat pretty much sucks for me, well...a girl's gotta eat! So anyhoo, I made this really kick butt black bean chili. At least I think it's kick butt, you may not. Even my meat-loving husband liked it, although he did mention the sacrilege of not putting meat in chili. Can you see me rolling my eyes?

Pictures are going to have to come later. The camera seems to be in hubby's truck. I don't know why he takes the camera everywhere he goes. I've found lots of stupid pictures on the camera of things like music stands, recording equipment from school, speakers, a piece of floor in the bandhall...I don't know why, I just have this violent urge to delete them all! Where did this tangent come from?...

Back to the chili. I totally made up the recipe. I had some black beans, some vegetable broth, and some tomato sauce, it just seemed like a good idea. There was of course some other stuff in it too, but I'll tell you when I post pics.

I'm also in the process of making some no-cream ice cream. I got this recipe out of my Vegetarian Times magazine. It's peanut butter ice cream, but I'll have to let you know how it is later...it's not ready. I'll make sure to take pictures of that too...mmmmm...ice cream.

Cheating on my Toyota?

I had to put my Corolla in the shop the other day for repairs due to an accident like 6 weeks ago. Ya, it's finally getting done...I figured it was time. I had a good time talking to the insurance guy for the old biddies who hit me. He was telling me how very elderly and confused she sounded...and she was just lying to him. I set him straight though. I just laughed out loud when he said the elderly part. They were only in their 50's, but I thought they were elderly too when I saw them decked out in their moomoos and house slippers. "Must of had a rough life", the insurance guy tells me. He was a hoot!

Anyhoo, I digress...

I get to have a rental car while mine is being put back together. They didn't have a compact car available, so I got the next best. It ended up being a Nissan Altima. This is the coolest car ever! There's no key. There's a sensor in the lock/unlock gadgetty thingy. As long as it's in the car, you just push a button to turn it on. It's amazing! Don't laugh at me, I drive a base model Corolla. I was lucky to get a CD player. I love my car-car, but I think I might get drivers envy when I have to turn this rental in.

It's freakin hot!

It is so hot in my house right now, we took small trips in the car just to get cool. I really don't know how anyone lived without AC. I'm sweaty, my hair looks terrible, I'm grumpy, and I'm wearing almost nothing. This is not a pretty picture. I even took a cold bubble bath last night...it felt wonderful. I thought maybe our house was just crappily insulated, but I don't remember it being this hot in the past. We finally figured out there's something wrong with our air unit. They're suppose to call us back in the morning. In the mean time, we sweat. Texas in the summer sucks.

I'm not shy, I just don't want to say anything dumb

There's just nothing like going to a cookout where you only know about 2 people. Expecially when you're a social retard like me. Hubby has the fortunate nature to be able to talk to anyone, anywhere, wheather he knows them or not. I on the other hand have the unfortunate disposition of having nothing to say to anyone, known or not known. I like to call myself more of an observer, a people watcher. I've heard some might mistake that as pride and conceit. Whatever...I just have nothing to say.

So don't think I don't like you because I don't talk to you. I just haven't mastered the art of conversation yet.

Breakfast!

Okay, so here's a couple pictures of my latest concoctions. My hot cocoa and scrambled tofu...yummy!

Hooray for tofu!

I've been experimenting with new strange foods, and I haven't been disappointed yet. The other day I was craving something sweet, but the only thing chocolate I had in my house was a tin of baking cocoa. Well this calls for hot chocolate, vegan style! I poured 1 1/2 cups of soy milk in a sauce pan with 2 T of cocoa and a 1/2 t of Stevia. Whisk together on low heat until it starts to steam, not boil. Then I added a touch of vanilla before pouring. This was pretty darn good! Even hubby liked it. This is when I know something is good...if the carnivore likes it, it must be fantastic.

Lately I've been craving scrambled eggs. Yes, I still crave meat and dairy, but I just improvise with what I have. When we went to Moab for our reunion, I got to spend some time with my aunt and uncle who are vegan too. They took me to a restaurant that caters to us weirdos. I got the scrambled tofu. It was so incredibly yummy, I've been craving it ever since. So I decided to make my own tonight. I'm one of the pickiest eaters I know when it comes to textures, so I was a little apprehensive about making my own scrambled tofu. It was so easy! I took a handful of tofu and squeezed the excess water out. This made a perfect scrambled "egg" consistency before I even cooked it. Then I heated a nonstick skillet with a little bit of garlic flavored olive oil on medium heat. In went the tofu, salt, pepper, some Tony's, and onion powder. I was amazed at how this really tasted like eggs! I have found my new favorite breakfast dish. Oatmeal was starting to get a little old. I wish I had taken a picture of it, but I was so hungry and it smelled so good, I didn't get the chance. But I'll make it again tomorrow I'm sure!

Family Time Part 2

On the fifth day of our little family adventure, it was the last day of the reunion. I was a little bummed. First for having to get in the car again with kids who couldn't play nice, and second for not getting to go to Salt Lake at I had intended. So I got my camera out and took lots of pictures of people I'll miss until my next visit.

This is Great Grandma Dot. She likes to hit people with her cane...luckily, she didn't have it.

Next to that is one of her daughters who happens to be my grandmother.

This is my grandma's sister, Janice. She's only a few years older than mom, so we grew up with her kids...my second cousins I guess. Then here's Rosalie, one of Great Grandma Dot's sisters.

And of course here's me and my mom. That's grandpa on the right, mom's dad.

Well, we had a good time but it was time to leave. But not home...oh no. It was off to Nebraska to help my sister-in-law with some flooding problems!

Family time

The last 10 days have been a little crazy. The hubby got to miss out on all the fun, but I was right there in the middle of it. Last Wednesday and Thursday we drove from Houston to Oklahoma City to Moab, Utah for our family reunion. Once we got there, I had a good time. I really can't say the same for the trip there.

Just kill me now. This was day 3 in the car when we finally arrived in Moab.

Day 4 was pretty great. We went hiking in Arches National Park. Mile and a half one way my patootie!

Just a little further...

This was no mile and a half! But it was worth it.

This was just up to day 4. Stay tuned for the rest of my family vacation.

Saying goodbye to Lane Bryant

Weight: 166

I've hit a crucial turning point in my weight loss. I no longer wear clothes from Lane Bryant! Those of you not familiar with good ol' Lane are the lucky ones. It's a clothing store for sizes 14 and higher. I've been shopping there for about 3 years. After hitting a size 16/18 I couldn't wear normal clothes from Target or Macy's anymore. 16 petite is not exactly an easy size to find! But Lane Bryant never failed me. I could always find my size and was always happy with what I got.

So out with the old, and in with the older. I'm so glad I never got rid of my "old" size 12's. I didn't get to wear them very long before I started ballooning. I don't mind wearing clothes I wore before I got married. I don't need new ones. It gives me more pleasure putting on a 7 year old pair of jeans than it does to just buy new ones. Although, don't get me wrong, when I get a job I'm hittin' the mall!

Who done it?!

Even though I don't have kids, I can still feel very mom-ish sometimes. My cats are kind of like my kids, except I wouldn't die for them or take them on vacation with me. But when it comes to doing naughty things, I go all mommy on them. Lets take for example chewing on stuff that doesn't belong to them.

Was it you Phoebe?

Or maybe it was Belle?

No. I'm thinking it was the one who ALWAYS CHEWS ON STUFF!

Or what about this one?!

His favorite is glossy paper. You know, the kind from which pictures are made. I've lost many pictures due to his taste in chew toys. And it's not like I can put him in time out or take away his TV. Is there a cat whisperer somewhere who can help?

Scrappin' it

Last weekend mom and I went to a scrapbook retreat. "What? You scrapbook?" No. I like to pretend I do...I have a lot of stuff. I think that qualifies me as a scrapbooker. I did make about a dozen of these cool accordian books for our reunion coming up.

Pictures would go inside...so they tell me.

Like I said, mom went with me too.

I attempted to do some "normal" pages as well.

This didn't last long. Of course, mom and I weren't as die-hard as the other ladies there. We went shopping on Saturday, walked around the graveyard, and went to bed before midnight every night. I think it was a pretty fun weekend. I'm sure we'll be doing this again soon!

You mean I'm suppose to have protein?!

I love it when I come across the concerned person who thinks being vegan is UNhealthy. "Where do you get your protein?....Are you getting enough protein?....It's not healthy to not eat protein." I don't think I've ever met a person in this world who suffered from a protein deficiency. Did you know 2 tablespoons of peanut butter has 8 g of protein? Or 1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds has 19 g of protein?! Or 1/2 cup of tofu has 20 g of protein?! Or 1/2 cup of beans has 7-10 g of protein?! I don't think I'm going to die from lack of protein any time soon.

Another one in calcium. Well, I did have to start taking a calcium supplement, but not because I stopped eating dairy. It actually came to my attention, when I started researching how much of what we all need to be healthy, that we need 1000 mg of calcium daily. I wasn't even getting this before, so I decided to start taking the calcium (600 mg thank you very much). Problem solved.

Can you tell I've been confronted today about this?

Meatless mania!

I have discovered the yummiest meatless wonder since going the big V! I kid you not, you would not be able to tell the difference between these and other processed chicken patties. I am in faux chicken heaven!

A relaxing evening out

Went to Buffalo Wild Wings tonight. Our waitress was in training...it was pretty obvious. She said something about her being a dork. I said that I understood...we were all band teachers. She proceeds to tell us how she use to laugh at the band kids in high school. The beer helped to soften my sense of humor. I then proceeded to laugh at her for her ignorance. Funny how things come full circle.

Quarter life crisis, part 2

I think I'm having another quarter life crisis. Or maybe it's just been going on for the past year...who knows. My job prospects are a little scarry. Not only am I applying for jobs in the teacher world again, but if that doesn't work out, I'm also sending my resume out to some really random jobs. I've been searching for the last 2 1/2 hours on hotjobs for anything that looks remotely promising. I've come up with an Export Coordinator for a trucking company (at least I think it's a trucking company...not really sure), and some kind of analyst for Anadarko. I think I'd rather have the latter, since it's only about 5 minutes from my house and right next to the mall! I've always secretly wanted to be one of those business people who have power lunches at Brio or Cheesecake Factory. But I digress...

Well I am selling Mary Kay now, but I would need to work my little Mary Kay ass off to bring in anything substantial right now. I'm just a Mary Kay baby.

I think I'm ready to get my corporate feet wet, though. That regulatory analyst position is looking pretty good right now.

Heart breaking

One of my best friends is going through complete heart break right now. For reasons unknown to us at the present, the baby she's been carrying for the last 30 weeks has gone to be with the Lord. I have no idea how this feels. I don't know how to comfort her. She seemed so strong when I talked to her and saw her in the hospital. I was a basket case! She's one of my best friends, and I don't want to see her hurting. I can only hope and pray that her labor is painless, and her delivery is quick. I love you sweetie!

Wishful thinking?

Weight: I don't know...I've put my scale AWAY!

I have been inspired by my sister to start running. And although I'm a terrible runner, I've still signed up to run a 5K in January. I figure I'd better start out small, so as not to overwhelm myself. I'm pretty easily overwhelmed, and 13.1 miles just sounds like a lot o' runnin. I've started out on the treadmill because it's just embarrassing how little I actually run. I'm also starting to get too dependent on movies getting me through a run, so I need to stop that pretty quick.

Oh, and speaking of embarrassing, there is no sports bra on this planet that can tame the girls! I think some day they might actaully knock me out. It's not a pretty picture having them jump for joy with every step I take. Just take my word for it. If anyone has any suggestions or tips, I'd be happy to try anything. Perhaps I should bind them with an Ace Bandage or duct tape...hmmm...

So here I sit in May with my wishful thinking for 8 months away with only one goal in mind...run the whole 5K without stopping. Pretty hefty goal for a hefty girl? I guess we'll see!

To baby or not to baby...

Everyone around me is having babies. I went to the mall a week ago with three of my girlfriends who happen to ALL be pregnant. It was quit a sight! One is due any day, the other in June, and the other in July. As we were walking by a vendor booth, the lady asked if we would like a brochure for the dresses she sells. The look on her face as she looked down to three pregnant bellies was priceless!

It's fun watching my friends get pregnant and go through the process of having the baby and watching the baby grow. I'm having a hard time believing this is in the cards for me. I hear it changes your life...is that an understatement? Am I going to turn 40 or 50 and regret not starting a family? My clock is starting to tick louder and louder, and it's getting harder and harder to just ignore it. My doctor tells me if I'm going to do it, I should jump in pretty soon considering I'm having "issues" in the area of conceiving.

Maybe I should go back to teaching full time and remember why I didn't want kids in the first place.

I gotta stop talking about food

Weight: 172

You would be proud of me. I went to Cheesecake Factory, sat in the parking lot for a couple of minutes, then left. It's called will power people, and I used a little bit of it tonight. It was hard, but I even managed to leave without going to Starbucks too. Just because I went earlier today wouldn't have kept me from going again. It was that will power thing kicking in. It was just after 9 pm, but I had no urge to go home, so I went to HEB instead of dinner. I love just walking around that store. It's in kind of a posh part of town, so they have a lot of organic and specialty foods. I spent about 20 minutes wandering aimlessly down each aisle only to get some dried aprocot chips. They're pretty good, but very pricey. This is The Woodlands; I suppose I should know better.

So tomorrow's another day I will attempt to avoid going to CF. I have food at home...I don't NEED to go there. I'll say this in my head as I pull into their parking lot. I don't think the will power's going to last that long. At least I'm not getting the $14.99 Bang Bang Chicken and Shrimp (which by the way is to DIE for), I'm getting the half-that-price salad. Mmmm....spinach.

It's time to get pretty!

That's right people, I'm one of "them". I wear skirts and heels and get all excited about the new lipstick colors coming out. I am a Mary Kay beauty consultant. I carry skin care surveys in my purse, and I'm not afraid to use 'em! This is by far the coolest thing I've ever done. I don't care if you think I'm wierd or dorky. I'm about to break my social retard bubble. This is big for me. I can actually get on the phone and call people I don't know! I think that deserves a lip gloss. Their lip gloss is kick ass!

Check out my site! Hey, and if you wanted to buy something, I'd be okay with that! :o)

Creative Cuisine

I've been getting very creative with my food lately, but it's almost always worth it. I experimented with these rice crispy treats, but instead of marshmellow I used peanut butter. These didn't turn out as expected, so they stayed in the fridge for the party we had tonight. And of course I never have a party without my frog's eye salad...but of course I had to veganize it. It actually turned out really good, but I forgot it was in the fridge and it barely got eaten! Oh well...more for me! But I think my masterpiece of the night was the chocolate cake. I had never made a cake from scratch before. I always thought they seemed kind of dry, but this one was so yummy, and so not dry! I hadn't had chocolate since starting my vegan trek, so this was a real treat for me. I think it was a pretty big hit. Should I tell them it had tofu in it? Nah. I had one small piece and thought I might actually vomit from being so happy. Okay, mabe it was the chocolate overload. And I am such a looser for not taking a picture of it! Well crap, I'll just have to make another one, considering the last one is all gone. I've really got to start taking pictures of these masterpieces.

Salad fantasies

I went to the Cheesecake Factory AGAIN today. I'm officially addicted to that silly salad! And what's worse is that I went BY MYSELF. I wasn't a sad little girl and requested a table for one, though. I got it to go. I have to say it wasn't as great as eating it in the restaurant...note to self, To-Go means Go With Less. But it didn't matter much; I still licked the plate clean. I'll have to request that table for one next time and eat it in house. Hey, I've done it before. The key is to take something with you to do, like make a grocery list or read a book...that way you don't look like a wierdo. Wierdo or not, I'm sure I WILL be making another trip soon.

Weigh-in day!

Weight: 174

The journey to being a skinny bitch is a slow one, but I'm determined to do it. Going out to eat is an adventure I'd like to avoid at all costs...unless it's Cheesecake Factory. I'm a little ashamed to admit I went there on Friday AND Saturday. I found a salad that makes me cry it's so good. I never thought I'd say that about a bunch of leafy greens, but my food choices have been a bit limited lately. If you go there you need to get it...of course, without cheese. I think it's called the French Country Salad. It's one of their "small" salads. Don't let that fool you...it's still freakin huge!...for a "small" salad.

I was planning on working out today, but after shampooing my living room carpet, I'm going to go ahead and count that. I hope I can lift my arms tomorrow. At least my carpet looks good!

Gee, thanks for the support honey...

So my dear, loving, sweet, supporting husband asks me last night, "So how long are you going to be a vegan?" I just gave him that look that says that's the stupidest question I've ever heard.

"Uh, forever" I say.

"I give it two weeks."

Then he proceeded to wave a bag of cheese in front of my face. If he were any more observant, he would have noticed it's already been two weeks.

Hoppy Easter!

Weight 178.8 I'll take those 2/10 of a point thank you!

Today was yet another Sunday I had to get up well before sunrise to make it to church on time. But I got to watch the sun come up as I sat in the church parking lot putting on makeup...I don't see those very often! Playing was fun, but spread out throughout the service, so no going to breakfast...bummer. But that was alright since the choir members brought food to eat between services. I figured I was safe eating as much of the fruit bowl as I wanted. With all the pastries, pigs in a blanket, pies, and meatballs, that bowl was all mine!

So now I'm at home relaxing, still in my church clothes, minus my only pair of nylons the dog immediately snagged when I walked through the door. It's the perfect day for an Easter egg hunt, but I don't have any kids, so maybe I'll just go hide some dog biscuits in the yard and let my furry child partake.

Giggin' it

Weight: 180. Ya, ya, don't say it...2 pounds in 2 days, no way. Yep, AND I eat constantly. Take THAT fad diet! Anyhoo, back to my real blog...

I had to get up crazy early this morning. Alright, so it wasn't crazy early, but it was early enough. Today was Palm Sunday, and I had some giggin to do. Yay for church gigs! Churches are my favorite gig. The music is always easy, the people are always nice, and the pay is always good. This morning we had an 8:30 service and an 11:00 service. We consisted of a brass quartet and only played on 1, count it ONE song, the anthem, which happened to be after the sermon. They did this during the offeratory...I guess they wanted to change things up a bit. So we played our ONE song and then went to breakfast. Then we came back in time to hear the second sermon and played our ONE song again. That was it people! And got paid nicely for our services.

Next weekend is Easter. Same church, same quartet. I think this time we're playing two songs, but I was told I'm playing four. This did not sit well in my belly as it suddenly fell to the floor. This means only one thing...solo. Aaaaackk!!! I'm not ready for this...it's too soon! Maybe I'll hide behind the giant flower arrangement I got to hide behind today.

Vegan-ventures

Weight: 181...yay! One down, many, many, many more to go.

Today is day 3 of my adventures in the land of Vegan. Yes, I said VEGAN! I must say it's not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. I made a choice, and I plan to stick with it no matter what. Now I'm armed with my new cook book, countless websites, and book recommendations. And lucky me, I have a vegan uncle and aunt who are just an email or phone call away. For the first time in a long time I feel like I have some control over something in my life. Now don't think I'm weird or anything. It's still me...I just don't eat meat or dairy, among other things. I don't think it's strange anymore, just smart.

Slim Fast for lunch, anyone?

Weight: Freakin 182 STILL!

I really don't know what's wrong with me. For the past two weeks I've been either on the treadmill, running at the park, or doing my Turbo Jam. And I haven't lost a single pound! Alright, so I'm not eating salads or drinking enough water. I'm sure this might have something to do with it. I've been reading my Skinny Bitch book, and I'm thinking my carnivorous ways could be keeping me from losing this weight. It's a fascinating book. Almost making me want to become a vegetarian...almost. I'll just start with the red meat. Bu-bye steak.

I'm not in the habit of working out yet, so it's still a pain in the ass. I figured running would be an easy and inexpensive way begin, but my body says otherwise. Not only do my butt and other unmentionables jiggle a little too much, but my left knee has a mind of its own. I want to go this way, it wants to go that way. It's a little worrying to know half your meniscus and all ACL is gone. I guess I didn't need it. Maybe if I happen to lose these 800 extra pounds I'm carrying around, I'll put up a before and after picture. Hahahahahaha!!!! Maybe not.

Ya, I'm in a band.

When I tell people I'm in a Pep Band they think it's pretty lame, but that's okay...I think I'm one of the coolest people EVER! Alright, maybe not, but I don't think the band I'm in is lame. I get to go to all the Houston Texans home games for free, AND I get season tickets, AND I get to tailgate with all the crazy fans. It's a win/win/win situation. I'll add another win in there for all the free stuff we get too. We had our annual band banquet tonight, and for the first time I actually enjoyed it. It's not like the band banquets of olden days where we dressed in all our finery and had dates. No dates allowed, and you'll just look like an idiot if you dress too fancy. This year it was held at the Amazon Grill on Kirby. If you haven't been there, I would highly recommend it...and not just because all my food and booze was free. The tres leches they brought us was so good, but so small I joked with the waiter about wanting another one. About 10 minutes later, he put a BIG bowl of it in front of me! I was in tres leches heaven!

Anyhoo...

I'm all about getting free stuff, and the Houston Texans don't let me down! We got a gift bag with a Pep Band t-shirt (that's too small!), nice Texans travel mug, nice Texans pen, yet another pep band hat, a nice lether notebook thingy, and some other cool free stuff! So I would say all in all it was a good Monday night...had a few beers, got a nice buzz, let it wear off, got a lot of free stuff, had a good meal, then went home. Definitely the best Monday in a while.

And the countdown begins...

Until I'm 30. In high school, this seemed like forever away. I don't feel like I'm almost 30. Well, I do have a year left to get use to it. I still get carded from the 22 year old waitress, so that makes me feel good. Maybe they're just being nice. I don't think I can do this getting older thing. I call a do-over on year 28.

Christmas in February

Weight: 182. Nothing gained, nothing lost...I think I was just bloated on Sunday! I know that's what you wanted to hear.

I always found it funny when people would leave their Christmas trees and lights up for a while after Christmas. Well, I have become one of these people. Christmas was two freakin months ago and my lights are STILL on my house! And their not those normal string of lights that you can't really see until you're up close...they're icicle lights! I'm so embarrassed! I'd take them down myself, but 1. they're too high, and 2. that's a man's job. I don't do outside stuff.

I finally took the Christmas tree down in mid January, but it hasn't been put away yet either. It's still sitting in the box in my living room. It weighs about 3000 pounds, so I'm still waiting for hubby to put it back where it goes. I've got a honey-do list a mile long, and no honey here long enough to do things like take down the freakin Christmas lights! Maybe we'll just fit in with our white trash neighbors and not EVER take them down.

Oh ya, still shiny!

Weight: 183. Ya, ya, I've gained a pound...Thanks TMEA.

Anyhoo...

I cleared off 2...yes, count em, 2 hot spots today. And the day isn't over yet! A hot spot is somewhere in your house that collects things, like the coffee table or the dresser in the guest bedroom. Today mine was the kitchen counter and the dining room table. It makes me smile seeing a clean table...actually a clean anything. My sink has been clean a shiny for a week. This may seem silly to some, but it works for me. I've even got hubby trained to not put anything in the sink...this is a huge milestone. I'm telling you, that shiny sink's gonna change my life. :o)

Changing lives one shiny sink at a time!

I am going to change my life starting with my kitchen sink. Thanks Rhonda for the cool website that's teaching me how to clean and declutter my life! I'm starting small, I know, but that's exactly how I'm suppose to start. The first thing we're told to do is "shine your sink". There's a certain way this is done, so I won't go into detail here, but that's step one. This one thing has made me a happy girl. I've had a clean, shiny sink for 3 whole days! I'm feeling quite accomplished! Now, I thought it was kind of cheesey when I went there the first time, and it was a lot of information, but sooooooo worth it! I think everyone should be taking advice from the FlyLady. And if you don't need her because you don't have any clutter or messes, then I don't like you. That is not natural!

TMEA is here!

The week of convention is finally upon us. Music convention, that is. Here is a chance for music teachers to get away from school and be either drunk or hung over for 3 days. This happens twice a year for us music folk...February and July. I always look forward to these little reunions...that's pretty much what it feels like. You see people you haven't seen since the last convention and there's a lot of alcohol involved. I always enjoy going and seeing how people have changed. Have they gotten fat?...thin?...married?...divorced?...kids? Teachers are a very gossipy group of people.

Then there's those people you don't really want to see and try to avoid at all costs. But no matter how much you try to avoid eye contact and reverse direction, they always catch up to you and want to talk about their job and how great things are. Then they ask you where you are teaching. But this year I'm going to smile happily and say "nowhere...I don't teach anymore". That'll certainly wind the conversation down, for music teachers like to talk shop. No shop to talk here! This year I can just be one of those "band director's wives". I'm ready to get my drink on! :o)

Isn't college suppose to make you smarter?

Boy, I sure am glad I went to college for 6 years for my music degree. Just look how far I've come! I spend 10 hours a week teaching private lessons and the rest of my time studying medical terms and listening to doctors dictate things like gastrointestinal surgeries, history and physicals, and laboratory/pathology reports. It's going to take me longer to pay off my student loans than it took to decide to change careers.

Who the heck knows at 18 what they want to do for the rest of their lives? No pressure or anything! Music was all I knew how to do, so what do you think my choice was? Hmmmm...

Now 11 years after I've graduated high school, I think I know what I want to be. And you know what? I didn't need a college degree to do it. Too bad I can't give my degree back and ask for a refund. That would be AWESOME!

Favorite past time, or obsession?

Weight: 182

Lately my days have been consisting of only 3 things: studying, reading, and teaching lessons. But the second of those three things is my favorite of all! Studying is great and all, but I don't get paid to do it yet and find no pleasure in it at the moment. Teaching lessons is my little way of getting out of the house and making a little money. But reading....oh, reading...takes up the rest of my day. I kid you not, I have read for 12 hours straight and have sometimes forgotten to eat. If you know me, than in itself is shocking for me to be missing meals. But hey, I'm down 3 pounds. I could stand to miss a few meals.

Of course, I only read the very best of genres...romance. Perhaps I should dedicate this blog to each book I read. Then I would be blogging every other day! I admit to neglecting my house work because of this past time...or is that obsession? I don't really care. It makes me happy, and I'm all about making me happy. So now I'm off the bed to see how my heroine steals the heart of a mighty Scottish laird. I wonder if they'll get together!? :o)

More of me to love

Weight: 185

I'm always shocked when I see a picture of myself. "Who's that chunky"..?...oh, it's me. And I'm not one of those people who just thinks they're fat and they're really not. I really am. At 4 foot 11 there's really no place to hide any extra poundage. My doctor tells me to lose weight. I'm so glad I spent $35 for a well educated person to tell me to lose weight. Thank you captain obvious. I refuse to go on yet another "diet" and hate counting calories. I'm tired of my new years resolutions always being to lose weight. I've got about 70 extra pounds that I really don't need anymore.

So what am I going to do about it? My blog is going to be my accountability outlet. From now on my weight is going on every blog I write. Hopefully it will be going in the downward direction from now on.

Dusti, I'm going to need your will power when we go out to eat! Wish me luck!

You must be this tall to ride.

In my hunt for a new job, I came across a startling discovery concerning my apparent limitations. Perhaps I was going a bit over the top with my choice of new career paths, but desparate times call for desparate measures. My husband has always wanted me to work for Continental airlines so we can fly for free. This made no sense to me. I would take a $10000 pay cut so we could fly for free?

Anyhoo, I thought I'll at least look into it...what could it hurt? I love to travel, so the first thing I thought about was flight attendant. When I began to read the criteria I thought "this could be it for me!" Little was I expecting the slap in the face near the end of the list. "You must be at least 5 feet tall." I am NOT 5 feet tall...this was a bit upsetting.

I guess I can throw that career path out the window.

Today's thoughts

I was noticing how exciting my life has become while I was matching socks this afternoon. As much as I hate matching socks, I get this strange excitement when I find two that happen to match. I still have a small laundry basket that is forever full of unmatched socks. Where did their mates go? I think there was a time once since I've been married that I had ALL the socks washed, but still a basket of singles. Why do I keep them? Because some day that mate just might turn up, and be the highlight of my day.

Going to the grocery store this morning was also on my list of exciting things to do today. I decided to boycot Wal-Mart for a while and opted for the slightly more expensive Kroger. But I did have my Grocery Game list and coupons in hand, so I don't feel too bad driving the extra 5 miles.

Since I've been unemployed, I've had a lot of time to do the things I "didn't have time to do" when I had a job, like match socks or putting away the Easter decorations from last year. I wonder how long it will take me to finally put away the Christmas stuff that's still littering my home. I may get to it by February.